I did not see, I did not see the cloud you carried

upon your head covered by the vines

or the Periwinkle twinkling against your dark curls

as you followed the beat of the drummer

that asked to be fed.

 

I failed you, I failed you, my friend,

I could not keep you safe

from the needle that spread its poison

deep within your veins as you followed

that drummer in your head.

 

If I could, if I could turn back time

I would wait by the storefront

where we first met and smile into your eyes

and mute the drumbeats of the drummer

that has left you for dead.